Public Statements

Congressman Rothman's Statement on his Vote Against the GOP's So-Called Violence Against Women Act

Statement

Congressman Steve Rothman (NJ-9) released the following statement on his vote against the House GOP's so-called Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization, which passed the House of Representatives yesterday by a vote of 222 to 205: For nearly 20 years, the Violence Against Women Act has enhanced the investigation and prosecution of incidents of domestic and sexual violence, and provided critical services to victims in court. Domestic violence in our communities and neighborhoods has dropped by more than half since the legislation became law in 1994.

However, House Republicans are fighting to rollback and weaken some of VAWA's most vital protections. With one in four American women still experiencing stalking or sexual assault by a partner, Republicans must stop playing games with the safety of women.

Unfortunately, the House GOP has decided to use partisan games by bringing a bill to the floor which will leave women less protected and fails to address gaps in protection and services to Native Americans, immigrants, and LGBT victims. I voted against this bill because it endangers victims, emboldens perpetrators of violence, and eliminates essential law enforcement tools to keep women safe.